Economics

Toward a theoretical model of voluntary overcompliance

Article Abstract:

A simple model is developed to examine the motivations of firms for voluntarily overcomplying with environmental regulation. The analysis also focuses on the increasing desire of companies to gain a reputation as environmentally conscious organizations. The model proposes that these two commonly observed phenomena occur naturally in settings where consumers have become environmentally aware enough to modify their buying habits based on personal judgements of 'clean' and 'dirty' companies.

Environmental policy in OECD countries

Article Abstract:

An analysis describing environmental policies in OECD (Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development) countries is presented. It is shown that problems of price structures are linked with the development of policies for environmental problems. A gap between environmental economic theory and real world environmental policy is observed. The development of an ideal environmental policy is still a major concern of OECD countries.

New evidence on trends in vehicle emissions

Article Abstract:

The effect of environmental regulations on vehicle emissions is determined using data from the 1992 emission tests in Chicago and the 1993 California Smog Check. Distinctions were made regarding model year, brand, size, cars against light trucks, foreign against domestic vehicles and California versus Chicago regulations. Findings indicate an overall decrease in vehicle emissions as a result of strict federal standards.